WNED-AM 970 NEWS
(2010-09-01)
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The September issue looks at area theater, present and past.
The issue offers previews and perspectives on many of the major contributors on the local scene.
One article takes a closer look at Buffalo's biggest contribution to live performance, the minstrel show.
James Walkowiak researched the local roots of the minstrel show and in this month's issue of Buffalo Spree he writes "Christy and Company:Buffalo's Key Role in the Best and Worst of American Popular Entertainment.
Check out Buffalo Spree here.
In an interview with WNED News, Walkowiak describes how the minstrel show emerged from Buffalo's early days as the end port of the Erie Canal.
With 60,000 people passing through the area each summer, Buffalo's waterfront had a "wild west" atmosphere of bars and brothels.
Out of that scene emerged Edwin Christy, who developed the Christy Minstrels, a show that would soon become famous throughout North America and Europe.
Stephen Foster, the "father of American music" would collaborate on many of the songs for the Christy Minstrels.
Click the play button above to hear James Walkowiak's interview with WNED News.
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